Image processing apparatus, image processing method, program for executing image processing method, and storage medium that stores program for executing image processing method

ABSTRACT

There is described an image-processing apparatus for converting a first image data inputted into the image-processing apparatus to a second image data used in a visible-image outputting apparatus, which forms an image so as to make it visible for a human eyesight based on the second image data. The image-processing apparatus includes a data-characteristics acquiring section to acquire data-characteristics of the first image data, including at least one of a dynamic range and a frequency characteristic, by analyzing the first image data inputted into the image-processing apparatus; a memory section to store apparatus-characteristics of the visible-image outputting apparatus; and a processing section to adaptively change a data-converting method for converting the first image data to the second image data, corresponding to the data-characteristics of the first image data acquired by the data-characteristics acquiring section and the apparatus-characteristics of the visible-image outputting apparatus, stored in the memory section.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus,image processing method, program for executing the image processingmethod, and storage medium that stores the program for executing theimage processing method and more specifically to an art suitable for themedical field.

[0002] Conventionally, patient's images, such as X-ray images, have beendeveloped as film and observed by an image inspector, such as a doctor,to serve for the diagnosis. Also, the technology has recently beendeveloped that renders medical images, such as X-ray images, as imagedata and forms the data as images according to the necessity. This kindof technology has such advantages as it does not take up as much storagespace as film does and the image quality does not deteriorate over time.

[0003] There are two methods for handling medical images as image data:one method that renders images in a medium such as film before beingviewed, and another method that displays images on a monitor such as aCRT. When displaying images on a monitor, images are not always clearlyviewed by an image interpreter depending on the part of the body, suchas a chest, hand, or foot.

[0004] One reason for this problem is that the image's dynamic range orfrequency is not compatible with the display environment of the monitor.For example, the dynamic range of a monitor is fixed at 1:700, and thefrequency characteristics of the monitor tend to decrease on thehigh-frequency side. Specifically, the lung's blood vessels in the chestthat appear as a relatively high-frequency image are difficult tointerpret due to the characteristics of the monitor. However, images ofbones in the hand or foot are mostly easy to interpret despite of thecharacteristics of the monitor. Therefore, how to make the image datacompatible with the characteristics of the monitor is a problem.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] To overcome the abovementioned drawbacks in conventionalimage-processing apparatus, it is an object of the present invention toprovide an image processing apparatus which applies suitable processingaccording to an image so as to properly render the image on the monitor,an image processing method, a program for executing the image processingmethod, and a storage medium that stores the program for executing theimage processing method.

[0006] Accordingly, to overcome the cited shortcomings, theabovementioned object of the present invention can be attained byimage-processing apparatus and image-processing methods described asfollow.

[0007] (1) An image-processing apparatus for converting a first imagedata inputted into the image-processing apparatus to a second image dataused in a visible-image outputting apparatus, which forms an image so asto make it visible for a human eyesight based on the second image data,the image-processing apparatus comprising: a data-characteristicsacquiring section to acquire data-characteristics of the first imagedata, including at least one of a dynamic range and a frequencycharacteristic, by analyzing the first image data inputted into theimage-processing apparatus; a memory section to storeapparatus-characteristics of the visible-image outputting apparatus; anda processing section to adaptively change a data-converting method forconverting the first image data to the second image data, correspondingto the data-characteristics of the first image data acquired by thedata-characteristics acquiring section and the apparatus-characteristicsof the visible-image outputting apparatus, stored in the memory section.

[0008] (2) The image-processing apparatus of item 1, wherein, based onimage data corresponding to an image of a part of human body to bevisualized by the visible-image outputting apparatus, thedata-characteristics acquiring section acquires the data-characteristicsof the first image data.

[0009] (3) The image-processing apparatus of item 1, wherein, based onimage data corresponding to an image of a part of human body to bevisualized by the visible-image outputting apparatus, thedata-characteristics acquiring section selects associate data relatingto the image data, and then, the data-characteristics acquiring sectionacquires the data-characteristics of the first image data, based on theassociate data.

[0010] (4) The image-processing apparatus of item 3, wherein theassociate data includes information in respect to a name of a medicaldepartment, in which the image of the part of human body, to bevisualized by the visible-image outputting apparatus, is utilized formaking a diagnosis on the part of human body.

[0011] (5) The image-processing apparatus of item 3, wherein theassociate data includes information in respect to a name of the part ofhuman body, to be visualized by the visible-image outputting apparatus.

[0012] (6) The image-processing apparatus of item 1, wherein thevisible-image outputting apparatus is an image-displaying monitor.

[0013] (7) The image-processing apparatus of item 1, wherein thevisible-image outputting apparatus is a printer.

[0014] (8) An image-processing method for converting a first image datainputted into an image-processing apparatus to a second image data usedin a visible-image outputting apparatus, which forms an image so as tomake it visible for a human eyesight based on the second image data,comprising the steps of: acquiring data-characteristics of the firstimage data, including at least one of a dynamic range and a frequencycharacteristic, by analyzing the first image data inputted into theimage-processing apparatus; storing apparatus-characteristics of thevisible-image outputting apparatus in a memory; and adaptively changinga data-converting method for converting the first image data to thesecond image data, corresponding to the data-characteristics of thefirst image data acquired in the acquiring step and theapparatus-characteristics of the visible-image outputting apparatus,stored in the memory.

[0015] (9) The image-processing method of item 8, further comprising thestep of: acquiring the data-characteristics of the first image data,based on image data corresponding to an image of a part of human body tobe visualized.

[0016] (10) The image-processing method of item 8, further comprisingthe steps of: selecting associate data relating to image data, whichcorrespond to an image of a part of human body to be visualized, basedon the image data; and acquiring the data-characteristics of the firstimage data, based on the associate data selected in the selecting step.

[0017] (11) The image-processing method of item 10, wherein theassociate data includes information in respect to a name of a medicaldepartment in which the image of the part of human body, to bevisualized, is utilized for making a diagnosis on the part of humanbody.

[0018] (12) The image-processing method of item 10, wherein theassociate data includes information in respect to a name of the part ofhuman body, to be visualized.

[0019] (13) The image-processing method of item 8, wherein thevisible-image outputting apparatus is an image-displaying monitor.

[0020] (14) The image-processing apparatus of item 8, wherein thevisible-image outputting apparatus is a printer.

[0021] (15) A program of executing an image-processing method forconverting a first image data inputted into an image-processingapparatus to a second image data used in a visible-image outputtingapparatus, which forms an image so as to make it visible for a humaneyesight based on the second image data; wherein the image-processingmethod comprises the steps of: acquiring data-characteristics of thefirst image data, including at least one of a dynamic range and afrequency characteristic, by analyzing the first image data inputtedinto the image-processing apparatus; storing apparatus-characteristicsof the visible-image outputting apparatus in a memory; and adaptivelychanging a data-converting method for converting the first image data tothe second image data, corresponding to the data-characteristics of thefirst image data acquired in the acquiring step and theapparatus-characteristics of the visible-image outputting apparatus,stored in the memory.

[0022] (16) A storage medium storing a program of executing animage-processing method for converting a first image data inputted intoan image-processing apparatus to a second image data used in avisible-image outputting apparatus, which forms an image so as to makeit visible for a human eyesight based on the second image data; whereinthe image-processing method comprises the steps of: acquiringdata-characteristics of the first image data, including at least one ofa dynamic range and a frequency characteristic, by analyzing the firstimage data inputted into the image-processing apparatus; storingapparatus-characteristics of the visible-image outputting apparatus in amemory; and adaptively changing a data-converting method for convertingthe first image data to the second image data, corresponding to thedata-characteristics of the first image data acquired in the acquiringstep and the apparatus-characteristics of the visible-image outputtingapparatus, stored in the memory.

[0023] Further, to overcome the abovementioned problems, otherimage-processing apparatus and image-processing methods, embodied in thepresent invention, will be described as follow:

[0024] (17) The present invention provides an image processing apparatusfor converting input image data into image data to be displayed on amonitor, wherein the method of the image data conversion processing ischanged according to the characteristics of both the input image dataand the monitor that displays the images; for example, to respond to thecharacteristics of the monitor, when blood vessels are rendered, theimage processing is applied by highlighting high-frequency components;however, when bones are rendered, the image processing is applied byhighlighting low-frequency components (or no image processing isapplied); thereby, images to be interpreted can be accurately displayedon the monitor according to the characteristics of the image data (imagecontents, etc.). Moreover, with regard to determining the“characteristics of image data”, it is possible to determine thecontents of the image to be interpreted by extracting either the dynamicrange or frequency components from the input image data, or by readingadditional stored data associated with the image, such as a radiographedregion or a medical department name.

[0025] (18) Furthermore, it is preferable that the image data beobtained by taking a radiograph of at least a part of the body so thatthe image unique to each region of the body can be properly displayed onthe monitor.

[0026] (19) The present invention provides an image processing methodfor converting input image data into image data to be displayed on amonitor, wherein the method of the image data conversion processing ischanged according to the characteristics of both the input image dataand the monitor that displays the images; for example, to respond to thecharacteristics of the monitor, when blood vessels are rendered, theimage processing is applied by highlighting high-frequency components;however, when bones are rendered, the image processing is applied byhighlighting low-frequency components (or no image processing isapplied); thereby, images to be interpreted can be accurately displayedon the monitor according to the characteristics of the image data (imagecontents, etc.).

[0027] (20) Furthermore, it is preferable that the image data beobtained by taking a radiograph of at least a part of the body so thatthe image unique to each region of the body can be properly displayed onthe monitor.

[0028] (21) Furthermore, it is preferable that a program for executingthe above-mentioned image processing method be provided.

[0029] (22) Furthermore, it is preferable that a storage medium whichstores the above-mentioned program be provided.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will becomeapparent upon reading the following detailed description and uponreference to the drawings in which:

[0031]FIG. 1 shows a configuration of a medical network system accordingto an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032]FIG. 2 is a block diagram that illustrates a medical image formingapparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1;

[0033]FIG. 3 is a block diagram that illustrates a medical image formingapparatus 2 shown in FIG. 1;

[0034]FIG. 4 is a block diagram that illustrates a controller for themedical image forming apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 2;

[0035]FIG. 5 shows an example of the radiation image displayed on amonitor 3 a based on the image data; and

[0036]FIG. 6 shows a flowchart for explaining a image-processing methodembodied in the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0037] A medical network system that includes a medical image processingapparatus which is an embodiment of the present invention will bedescribed in reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 illustrates theconfiguration of the medical network system.

[0038] A medical network system, shown in FIG. 1, comprises a medicalimage forming apparatus 1 for forming medical images by the imagingmodality of CR (computed radiography) that scans the photo-stimulablephosphor panel which has recorded radiation image information about aphotogenic subject (patient) by using an excitation light andphotoelectrically converts the emitted light thereby obtaining imageinformation; a medical image processing apparatus 2 that receives animage file from the medical image forming apparatus 1, applies imageprocessing, and outputs the image information; and a diagnosis terminal3 which is composed of a personal computer (PC) or a workstation and hasa monitor 3 a for a roentgenologist to view the images for diagnosis.

[0039] The medical network system, shown in FIG. 1, further comprises areference terminal 4 which is composed of a PC or a workstation and hasa monitor with an image quality such as resolution that may be lowerthan that of the diagnosis terminal 3 because it is used basically forreferring to images but not for diagnosis; an image server 5 which iscomposed of a PC or a workstation and stores image files in the imagedatabase, retrieves and reads images from the diagnosis terminal 3 andthe reference terminal 4; and an imager (printer) 6 that outputs imagedata received from the medical image forming apparatus 1 or the medicalimage processing apparatus 2 as visible images on a recording mediumsuch as film or paper. Apparatuses 1 to 6 are connected online via anetwork 10 so that each apparatus can send and receive information toone another.

[0040] Next, detailed explanations of the following items A to I whichare related to the medical image forming apparatus 1, shown in FIG. 1,will be provided:

[0041] A. Apparatus Configuration

[0042] B. Information

[0043] C. File

[0044] D. Input and Display of the Main Information

[0045] E. Appointment Procedures

[0046] F. Radiographic Procedures

[0047] G. Transfer

[0048] H. Output Image Forming

[0049] I. Utility Function

[0050] A. Apparatus Configuration

[0051]FIG. 2 is a block diagram that illustrates a medical image formingapparatus 1 and FIG. 4 is a block diagram that illustrates a controllershown in FIG. 2.

[0052] a. As shown in FIG. 2, the medical image forming apparatus 1comprises a radiation image input apparatus (reader) 11 for readingradiation image information of a subject (patient) from thephoto-stimulable phosphor panel that stores and records the informationand converting the information into digital image data; a controller 12for controlling the operations of the entire radiographic system; and animage display apparatus 13 which is composed of a CRT display or aliquid crystal panel and displays the digital image data obtained by thereader 11. Moreover, the medical image forming apparatus 1 may comprisea reader 11 a and may include two or more readers. It also includesinformation input devices such as an input keyboard, mouse, etc.

[0053] b. The controller 12 makes up a man-machine interface operated bya user (radiologist) and controls the entire medical image formingapparatus 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the controller 12 includes a readcontroller 36 for receiving image data from the readers 11 and 11 a andconducting compensation processing in real time; a storage section 31which is composed of a hard disk or a RAM and stores various informationabout image files received from the read controller 36; an imageprocessing section 32 for processing images about image information inthe image file; an output image forming section 33 for forming images tobe sent out; an image confirmation processing section 35 for processingimages and displaying reduced images on the display apparatus 13 forconfirming the images; and a main controller 34 for controlling theoperations of the entire apparatus including the above-mentioned parts31 to 33, 35, and the display apparatus.

[0054] c. Specifically, the controller 12 is used for conducting thefollowing operations #1 to #7:

[0055] #1 A user operates the controller for the radiographyappointments.

[0056] #2 A user operates the controller to take radiographs.

[0057] #3 The controller receives image data read by the readers 11 and11 a.

[0058] #4 The controller temporarily stores image data in the storagesection 31.

[0059] #5 The controller processes images by means of the imageprocessing section 32.

[0060] #6 The controller forms images to be output by means of theoutput image forming section 33.

[0061] #7 The controller transfers the images to an external apparatussuch as an image server 5, etc. via a network 10.

[0062] B. Information

[0063] Information handled by the medical image forming apparatus 1 canbe divided into the following five categories:

[0064] [a. Radiographic Information]

[0065] This is image data information that has been obtained by takingX-ray photos and is sent as an image file to an external apparatus suchas an image server 5, etc. The radiographic information includes thefollowing:

[0066] (a) Reader Reading Condition

[0067] This is information concerning the reading method performed bythe readers 11 and 11 a, that is, the reading zone, reading pixel size,and reading sensitivity.

[0068] (b) X-Ray Apparatus Information

[0069] This is the control information when the X-ray radiographicapparatus is connected to the network 10 online and can be controlled bythe system shown in FIG. 1. This information includes X-ray tubevoltage, X-ray tube current, X-ray irradiation time, and irradiationzone.

[0070] (c) Image Processing Information

[0071] This information is about image data processing methodsconcerning the gradation processing and frequency processing that arehandled by the image processing section 32.

[0072] (d) Output Apparatus Information

[0073] This information is about external output apparatuses, such as adiagnosis terminal 3, reference terminal 4, image server 5, and imager6, shown in FIG. 1, that reproduce and output the image data.Information about the output zone, enlargement or reduction rate, outputformat (multi-format or split radiographic format), overlay, and thepresence or absence of the gradation processing and the frequencyprocessing is specified for each output apparatus.

[0074] (e) Overlay Information

[0075] This information is about the presence or absence of the overlay,such as AP/PA, R/L, and comment, and location.

[0076] (f) Information about Special Conditions

[0077] Protect information: After the images have been transferred,image files are stored in the storage section 31 until the protect isremoved.

[0078] Pending information: Transfer is pended. This information isspecified when images are transferred after they have been reviewed.

[0079] Priority (urgent) information: This information is specified whena priority is given to the transfer in situations of urgent radiography.This information is registered at the top of the queue.

[0080] [b. Patient Information]

[0081] This patient information includes the following:

[0082] (a) Patient ID information

[0083] Patient ID number, name, gender, birthday, etc.

[0084] (b) Order Information

[0085] This is information about a radiography request made by a doctorthat includes information about a patient's conditions, requested dateof examination, instructions for the examination method, etc.

[0086] [c. Radiography Implementation Information]

[0087] This information is about radiography results that include thefollowing:

[0088] (a) Radiographic Result

[0089] Date of radiography, radiography number etc.

[0090] (b) Image Processing Result

[0091] This is an image processing parameter calculation result. When animage is sent out, image data is processed by the image processingsection 32 based on the result.

[0092] (c) System Information

[0093] This information contains a part of the system information suchas system configuration when the radiograph was taken.

[0094] [d. System Information]

[0095] This information is for managing and controlling the entiresystem, shown in FIG. 1, and includes system configuration (externalapparatus such as an image server 5, etc. connected and its name),parameters for controlling devices that make up the system, table, andinformation about output apparatuses such as readers, an imager, and thehost.

[0096] [e. Image Data]

[0097] Image data contains the following:

[0098] (a) Image data that has been input from the readers 11 and 11 a

[0099] (b) Reduced image data to be displayed on the image displayapparatus 13 for image confirmation

[0100] (c) Reduced image data to be processed by the image confirmationprocessing section 35

[0101] (d) Output image data to which gradation processing or frequencyprocessing has been applied

[0102] C. File

[0103] Files handled by the medical image forming apparatus 1 are storedin the storage section 31 and can be divided into the following sevencategories:

[0104] [a. Condition File]

[0105] The radiographic condition key is used for presettingradiographic conditions, image processing conditions, and outputconditions. Each radiographic condition key has a correspondingcondition file. The condition file consists of the above-mentionedradiographic information. Classify the files beforehand according to theregion to be radiographed (lung, abdomen, head, etc.), radiographicposture (standing position, supine position, etc.), view direction(front, side etc.), patient characteristics (gender, age, constitution,etc.), disease name, radiologist name, and so on; and specify thecorresponding names and radiographic information. The controller 12 setsup a condition file group for each classification category, sets up twoor more condition files for each condition file group, and stores themin the storage section 31. An optimal condition is chosen when imagesare formed.

[0106] [b. Appointment File]

[0107] This file stores information about radiography appointments. Oneappointment file is created for each radiography. The appointment fileconsists of radiographic information selected by the radiographiccondition key and patient information.

[0108] [c. Image Header File]

[0109] An image header file is created after the radiography has beenfinished. The image header file consists of the radiography appointmentfile (i.e. radiographic information and patient information) andradiography implementation information. When a user wants to refer toand change the radiographic information, patient information, orradiography implementation information, the image header file isreferred to.

[0110] [d. Reduced Image File]

[0111] This file stores image data that has been reduced to a fractionof the original image data by the image confirmation processing section35 for image confirmation, and includes the data described below. Theimage reduction method includes simple pixel skipping, averaging, andspline.

[0112] (a) Reduced Image Data to be Displayed

[0113] This reduced image data is displayed on the image display unit13, shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, for image confirmation.

[0114] (b) Reduced Image Data for Image Processing

[0115] This reduced image data is used for calculating parameters to beused for conducting image processing by the image confirmationprocessing section 35. The reduction rate is chosen so that after apixel has been reduced it is equal to a predetermined length. This makesit possible to compensate for the difference in read pixel size by usingthe reduced image. The image processing parameter is calculated by usingthe reduced image for image processing rather than using image data.

[0116] [e. Image Data File]

[0117] The compensated image data that has been received from thereaders 11 and 11 a, shown in FIG. 2, is stored in the storage section31.

[0118] [f. Output Image Data File]

[0119] This file stores the output image data to which a specifiedprocessing method selected from the frequency processing, gradationprocessing, overlay, rotation, enlargement, and reduction has beenapplied.

[0120] [g. System File]

[0121] This file contains the above-mentioned system information.

[0122] D. Input and Display of Main Information

[0123] [a. Reading Zone]

[0124] #1 The reading zone is a place where X-ray images stored in thephotostimulable phosphor are converted to image data. Specify anappropriate area according to the region to be radiographed.

[0125] #2 Specify the reading size, view direction, and location.Register the data beforehand in the condition file.

[0126] #3 When a condition file is selected, the reading zone isdisplayed on the screen of the image display apparatus 13, shown in FIG.2, according to the preset condition. The maximum reading zone(normally, 356×432 mm) is to be equal to the reading zone display areaon the screen of the image display apparatus 13. The reading zone isdetermined by the specified reading size, view direction, and location,and is graphically displayed in the reading zone display area. Thismakes it possible to select and confirm appropriate reading size, viewdirection, and location.

[0127] #4 The irradiation zone is received from the X-ray apparatus andis simultaneously displayed in the reading zone display area.

[0128] [b. Output Zone]

[0129] #1 The output zone is a place where data is output to an externalapparatus such as an image server 5, etc.

[0130] #2 Specify the output size, view direction, trimming location,output location, and enlargement or reduction method. Register the databeforehand in the condition file.

[0131] #3 When a radiographic condition key is selected, the output zoneand the output image zone are determined according to the presetcondition and displayed on the screen of the image display apparatus 13.The maximum output zone is to be equal to the output zone display areaon the screen of the image display apparatus 13. The output zone and theoutput image zone are graphically displayed in the output zone displayarea. This makes it possible to select and confirm an appropriate outputzone and output image zone for each apparatus.

[0132] [c. Overlay Information]

[0133] #1 Specify whether or not “AP”, “PA”, “R”, “L”, comment, or scaleis overlaid; and if overlaid, at which location. Register the databeforehand in the condition file.

[0134] #2 An output image is displayed in the output zone display areaon the screen of the image display apparatus 13, and overlay informationis also graphically displayed.

[0135] #3 By touching a part of the output zone display area to beoverlaid, the overlay graphic image is moved to the location.

[0136] #4 It is possible to select an appropriate overlay and specifythe location.

[0137] #5 It is possible to check that there is no location that ishidden by an overlay. If the overlay interferes with a diagnosis, it canbe moved.

[0138] [d. Input/Output of Online Information Received from RIS(Roentgenology Information System)]

[0139] #1 A doctor's order is input. The input order is converted to theformat compatible with this system and stored in the appointment file.The region to be radiographed and the radiographic method are convertedby using the corresponding radiographic condition key.

[0140] #2 The image header file is converted to the RIS compatibleformat and output.

[0141] [e. Appointment List]

[0142] #1 It is possible to display a list of radiography appointmentsin sequential order of the appointments on the screen of the imagedisplay apparatus 13.

[0143] #2 After the radiograph has been taken, the controller 12automatically sets the appointment, which has been registered at the topof the appointment list, as a radiographic target.

[0144] #3 The appointment that had a radiograph taken is not deleted andis stored until the specified number of appointments is registered. Thismakes it easier to take a radiograph of the same patient or according tothe same condition again after the hard copy of the image has beenconfirmed.

[0145] E. Appointment Procedures

[0146] Three types of input methods are available according to theenvironment of the facility where the system, shown in FIG. 1, isinstalled.

[0147] [a. Online]

[0148] #1 Information necessary for taking radiographs, such as patientinformation, radiographic information, etc., is received online from RISvia a network 10 and input into the image forming apparatus 1.

[0149] #2 Normally, a keyboard is not necessary. However, when inputtinginformation which is not contained in the information from RIS, use aninformation input device such as a keyboard, etc.

[0150] #3 In regard to patient information, a doctor's order is inputonline. The multi-task function enables appointments to be made while aradiograph is being taken. Normally, make settings so that all necessarypatient information can be input for each facility.

[0151] #4 In regard to radiographic information, a doctor's ordertogether with patient information is input online. When making an order,a doctor selects an optimal radiographic method from radiographiccondition keys. Or, the controller 12 automatically selects aradiographic condition key which is most suitable for the doctor'sorder.

[0152] [b. Magnetic Card, Barcode, Etc.]

[0153] #1 The minimum of information, such as an ID number, patientname, etc., is input online.

[0154] #2 When inputting information which is not contained in the card,use a keyboard.

[0155] #3 The minimum of patient information necessary for radiographyis read from a magnetic card, etc. Use a keyboard to input associatedinformation if necessary.

[0156] #4 In regard to radiographic information, the controller 12automatically chooses the radiographic condition key which was used whenthe last radiograph was taken. To change the key, select an appropriatekey from the radiographic condition keys.

[0157] [c. Keyboard Input]

[0158] #1 Use a keyboard to input necessary information.

[0159] #2 Use a keyboard to input patient information. Since it takestime to manually input all of the patient ID numbers, names, and otherinformation, it is possible to use an operation mode for automaticallycreating a patient ID number based on the amount of radiographs taken(what number of radiograph) and the time when the radiograph was takenand to collate the ID number with an order written on the paper.

[0160] #3 Select radiographic information from radiographic conditionkeys.

[0161] F. Radiographic Procedures

[0162] [a. Procedures for a User to Take Radiographs]

[0163] #1 When the previous radiography has been finished, or the systementers into the radiographic mode, a screen for the next radiographyappears and radiographic information for the appointment listed at thetop of the appointment list is displayed on the screen of the imagedisplay apparatus 13.

[0164] #2 When there is no appointment, a radiographic condition key hasto be selected at this point to make an appointment. The default is theradiographic condition key which was used for the previous radiography.If radiographic information is insufficient, necessary information mustbe input at this point.

[0165] #3 View patient information and radiographic informationdisplayed on the screen of the image display apparatus 13, shown inFIGS. 2 and 4, and make sure that the information is properly set.

[0166] #4 A user (radiologist) takes radiographs in the same manner asX-ray photos that use film.

[0167] #5 Radiographic images are read and simultaneously displayed onthe screen of the image display apparatus 13.

[0168] #6 Gradation processing is applied to the images and then theprocessed images are displayed.

[0169] #7 A message appears that informs whether or not the radiographyand the processing are successful.

[0170] #8 Make sure that the radiography has been successful byevaluating the images and the message, and then press the key toterminate the radiographic procedure.

[0171] #9 If radiography failed, press the key to take radiographsagain.

[0172] [b. System Operations when Radiographs are Taken]

[0173] (1) The system enters into the radiographic mode (Press theradiographic mode key). When the system detects that the radiographicmode key has been pressed, the controller 12 switches the control modeto the radiographic mode.

[0174] (2) When there are appointments (the presence of appointmentfiles), contents of the appointment which has been registered at the topof the queue for managing appointment files are displayed on the screenof the image display apparatus 13.

[0175] (3) When there is no appointment, the controller 12 automaticallychooses the radiographic condition key which was used for the previousradiography. Reselect or change the radiographic condition key, or inputpatient information if necessary.

[0176] (4) Pressing the radiography switch of the X-ray irradiationapparatus will start taking radiographs.

[0177] (5) An X-ray is irradiated from the X-ray irradiation apparatusonto a subject, the radiation image stored in the photostimulablephosphor panel is scanned by an excitation light, and the data is readby readers 11 and 11 a as digital image information.

[0178] (6) The read controller 36 receives the image data from thereaders, applies compensation processing to the image data in real time,and stores it in the image memory.

[0179] (7) The image data stored in the frame memory is reduced to apredetermined reduction rate by the image confirmation processingsection 35.

[0180] (8) Sequentially, the reduced images which have been processed bythe image confirmation processing section 35 are displayed on the screenof the image display apparatus 13.

[0181] (9) After the images have been read and displayed, the digitalimage information is processed according to the method specified by theradiographic condition key and displayed again. Reduced images are usedfor image processing.

[0182] (10) The images are temporarily stored in the storage section 31.

[0183] (11) After images have been sequentially displayed on the imagedisplay apparatus 13, gradation processing is applied to the images andthen the processed images are displayed again.

[0184] (12) After the images have been read, the appointment file andthe radiography implementation information are stored in the storagesection 31 as an image header file.

[0185] (13) The reduced image data is stored as a reduced image file inthe storage section 31.

[0186] (14) The same number is assigned to the image header file,reduced image data file, and image data for management.

[0187] (15) These files are automatically stored in the storage section31 by the main controller 34 of the controller 12 after the images havebeen read by readers 11 and 11 a and before an operator conducts theconfirmation operation. This is to prevent loosing radiographed imageseven if the power has been turned off or a failure has occurred in thesystem due to an accident or mis-operation by an operator after theimages had been read.

[0188] (16) After images have been read, it becomes possible for anoperator to conduct operations.

[0189] (17) When the operator views the radiation image displayed on theimage display apparatus 13 and determines that the radiography has beensuccessful, the operator inputs the next radiography key for terminatingthe radiographic procedure by using the character information inputdevice and terminates the radiographic procedure.

[0190] (18) When changing patient information, image processing method,or output method, it is possible to enter new information by using acharacter information input device.

[0191] (19) When the next radiography key is pressed, the currentradiography is finished, and the next appointment will automatically bedisplayed on the image display apparatus 13.

[0192] (20) When an operator determines that the radiography failed, theoperator presses the re-radiography key, cancels the image, and takes aradiograph again.

[0193] (21) When the next radiography key is pressed, the currentradiography is terminated and the following processes are applied:

[0194] (22) The appointment file is stored as a radiographed appointmentfile in the storage section 31.

[0195] #1 When there has been a change prior to when the nextradiography key is pressed, the image header file which was stored whenthe reading was finished is updated.

[0196] #2 The radiographed image is registered in the queue for transferto an external apparatus.

[0197] #3 After an appointment file for the next appointment has beenread and displayed, radiography becomes possible.

[0198] (23) When the re-radiography key is pressed, the radiographicprocedure is finished, and the following processes are applied:

[0199] #1 The image header file, reduced image file, and image datawhich have been stored when reading was finished are discarded.

[0200] #2 It becomes possible to take radiographs of the sameappointment.

[0201] G. Transfer

[0202] (1) Transfer is conducted asynchronously with radiography.

[0203] (2) A queue is created and managed for each external apparatus,and each queue operates independently and does not interfere with oneanother. Therefore, transfer is asynchronously conducted for eachapparatus.

[0204] (3) The queue stores numbers assigned to each image in sequentialorder of the transfer.

[0205] (4) Information about in which queue of what external apparatusan image has been registered is stored as a queue registration table inthe storage section 31, updated and managed every time an image isregistered in the queue or deleted from the queue.

[0206] (5) Images that have been registered in the queue are transferredin sequential order, in which they were registered, to an externalapparatus such as an image server 5, etc.; and images that have beentransferred are deleted from the queue.

[0207] (6) To conduct the transfer operation, specify an image headerfile and an image data file, which have been stored in the storagesection 31, based on the number that has been registered in the queue.

[0208] (7) An output image is formed according to the condition storedin the image header file. The image header is converted to the formatspecified by each output apparatus and is transferred together with theimage data file.

[0209] H. Output Image Forming

[0210] [Image Forming Processing Conducted by the Output Image FormingSection 33]

[0211] #1 Image data is read from the storage section 31 to the imagememory.

[0212] #2 Frequency processing is conducted.

[0213] #3 Equalization processing is conducted.

[0214] #4 Gradation processing is conducted.

[0215] #5 An image is rotated.

[0216] #6 Mirror reversal is conducted.

[0217] #7 Enlargement or reduction is conducted.

[0218] #8 Overlay is conducted.

[0219] Moreover, it is possible to specify in the radiographicinformation whether or not to conduct the processing procedures #2 to #8for each output apparatus such as an image server 5, etc. Furthermore,it is also possible to specify that image data, to which specifiedprocessing procedures #2 to #8 have been applied, is stored as aprocessed image data file. Avoid reprocessing the commonly processedpart of the image which is output to each output apparatus. For example,when an enlargement or reduction rate of the image varies depending onan output apparatus, if the image that has processing procedures up to#6 finished is stored, when the image is transferred to anotherapparatus, it is possible to cut back processing time necessary forconducting procedures #2 to #6 by reading the processed image, applyingprocessing procedures #7 and #8 only, and transferring the image.Conduct processing procedures #5 and #6 simultaneously with one of theprocessing procedures #2, #3 or #4. This reduces the number of accessesto the memory, thereby reducing the processing time.

[0220] I. Utility Function

[0221] Several utility functions are provided for users.

[0222] [a. Utility Function]

[0223] Utility functions are restricted as passwords for a general user,manager, or maker. To change information about images, a managerpassword is required for security.

[0224] [b. Image File Operation]

[0225] #1 An image file list is displayed and information about imagesstored in the storage section 31 is listed in sequential order ofradiography on the image display apparatus 13.

[0226] #2 Selecting an image from the list will display patientinformation, radiographic information, and pixel skipped image in thesame form as the radiography screen.

[0227] #3 It is possible to change patient information, an imageprocessing method, and an output method.

[0228] #4 The image which has been specified as “pending” when aradiograph was taken can be unspecified by making reconfirmation at thispoint.

[0229] #5 It is possible to sort the image file list in sequential orderof the output to each external apparatus.

[0230] #6 It is possible to determine whether to output the data to eachexternal apparatus or change the sequential order of output.

[0231] [c. Radiography Log and Irradiation Log]

[0232] #1 Radiographic information and patient information arestatistically processed and a radiography log and an irradiation log areprovided for a user.

[0233] #2 It is possible to output the amount of radiography perradiographed region during a specified period and the list ofradiographic conditions applied to daily radiographs.

[0234] Next, detailed explanations of the following items A to H, whichare related to the medical image forming apparatus 2, shown in FIG. 1,will be provided:

[0235] A. Apparatus Configuration

[0236] B. Information

[0237] C. File

[0238] D. Input and Display of the Main Information

[0239] E. Image Confirmation Procedure

[0240] F. Output

[0241] G. Output Image Forming

[0242] H. Utility Function

[0243] A. Apparatus Configuration

[0244]FIG. 3 is a block diagram that illustrates a medical image formingapparatus 2 shown in FIG. 1. The medical image processing apparatus 2,shown in FIG. 3, comprises a main controller 21 for controlling theoperations of the entire radiographic imaging system and an imagedisplay apparatus 22 which is composed of a CRT display or a liquidcrystal panel and displays digital image data obtained by the medicalimage forming apparatus 1. The medical image processing apparatus 2 canbe composed of a personal computer and includes information inputdevices such as an input keyboard or a mouse.

[0245] As shown in FIG. 3, the image processing apparatus 2 furthercomprises a receiving section 40 for receiving image files from an imageforming apparatus 1; a storage section 41 which is composed of a harddisk or a RAM and stores information about the received image files; animage processing section 42 for processing image information containedin the image file; an output image forming section 43 for forming imagesto be sent to an external apparatus; and an image confirmationprocessing section 45 for displaying reduced images on an image displayapparatus 22 for confirming the received images. The main controller 21controls each parts 40 to 43, 44, and a display apparatus 22.

[0246] The medical image processing apparatus 2 has the followingfunctions, and each function is controlled by the main controller 21.

[0247] #1 The medical image processing apparatus receives an image filefrom a medical image forming apparatus 1 in the receiving section 40.

[0248] #2 The medical image processing apparatus temporarily stores theimage file in the storage section 41.

[0249] #3 The medical image processing apparatus confirms the imagequality by viewing the reduced images which have been formed by theimage confirmation processing section 45.

[0250] #4 The medical image processing apparatus conducts imageprocessing by the image processing section 42.

[0251] #5 The medical image processing apparatus forms the image to beoutput by the output image forming section 43.

[0252] #6 The medical image processing apparatus transfers the outputimage via a network 10 to an external apparatus such as an image server5, etc.

[0253] B. Information

[0254] Information handled by the medical image forming apparatus 2 canbe divided into the following five categories:

[0255] [a. Condition Information]

[0256] Condition information is used for processing a received imagefile and outputting it to an external apparatus such as an image server5. This information includes the following:

[0257] (a) Image Processing Information

[0258] This information is about gradation processing and frequencyprocessing that are handled by the image processing section 42.

[0259] (b) Output Apparatus Information

[0260] This is information about an external output apparatus such as animage server 5 that reproduces and outputs the image data. Informationabout the output zone, enlargement or reduction rate, output format(multi-format or split radiographic format), overlay, and the presenceor absence of the gradation processing and the frequency processing isspecified for each output apparatus such as an image server 5, etc.

[0261] (c) Overlay Information

[0262] This is the information about the presence or absence of theoverlay such as AP/PA, R/L, and comment, etc., and location.

[0263] (d) Information about Special Conditions

[0264] Protect information: After the images have been output, imagefiles are stored in the storage section 31 until the protect is removed.

[0265] Pending information: Transfer is pended. This information isspecified when images are transferred after they have been reviewed.

[0266] Priority (urgent) information: This information is specified whena priority is given to the transfer in situations of urgent radiography.This information is registered at the top of the queue.

[0267] [b. Patient Information]

[0268] This patient information includes the following:

[0269] (a) Patient ID Information

[0270] Patient ID number, name, gender, birthday, etc.

[0271] (b) Order Information

[0272] This is information about a radiography request made by a doctorthat includes information about a patient's conditions, requested dateof examination, instructions for the examination method, etc.

[0273] [c. Radiography Implementation Information]

[0274] This information is about image reception results and imageprocessing results.

[0275] (a) Image reception result: Date of radiography, etc. areincluded.

[0276] (b) Image processing result: This is an image processingparameter calculation result. When an image is sent out, image data isprocessed based on the result.

[0277] (c) System information: This information contains a part of thesystem information such as system configuration when the radiograph wastaken.

[0278] [d. System Information]

[0279] (a) Information for managing and controlling the system shown inFIG. 1

[0280] (b) Configuration (external apparatus, such as an image server 5,etc., connected. and its name) of the system, shown in FIG. 1

[0281] (c) Parameters and table for controlling devices that make up thesystem, shown in FIG. 1

[0282] (d) Preset information about the medical image forming apparatus1 which is an input device

[0283] (e) Preset information about output apparatuses such as an imager6, and the host

[0284] [e. Image Data]

[0285] (a) Image data that has been received from the medical imageforming apparatus 1

[0286] (b) Reduced image data to be displayed which has been createdfrom the image data for image confirmation

[0287] (c) Reduced image data to be processed by the image confirmationprocessing section 45

[0288] (d) Output image data to which gradation processing or frequencyprocessing has been applied

[0289] C. File

[0290] Files handled by the medical image forming apparatus 2 are storedin the storage section 41 and can be divided into the following sevencategories:

[0291] [a. Condition File]

[0292] The condition key is used for presetting image processingconditions and output conditions for image files. Each condition key hasa corresponding condition file. The condition file consists of theabove-mentioned condition information. Classify the files beforehandaccording to the region to be radiographed (lung, abdomen, head, etc.),radiographic posture (standing position, supine position, etc.), viewdirection (front, side, etc.), patient characteristics (gender, age,constitution, etc.), disease name, radiologist name, and so on; andspecify the corresponding names and radiographic information. The maincontroller 21 sets up a condition file group for each classificationcategory, sets up two or more condition files for each condition filegroup, and stores them in the storage section 41. An optimal conditionis chosen when images have been received.

[0293] [b. Image Header File]

[0294] An image header file is created after the image has beenreceived. The image header file consists of the radiography appointmentfile (i.e. radiographic information and patient information) andradiography implementation information. When a user wants to refer toand change the radiographic information, patient information, orradiography implementation information, the image header file isreferred to.

[0295] [c. Reduced Image File]

[0296] This file stores image data that has been reduced to a fractionof the original image data.

[0297] (a) Reduced Image Data to be Displayed

[0298] This reduced image data is displayed on the image display unit22, shown in FIG. 3.

[0299] (b) Reduced Image Data for Image Processing

[0300] This reduced image data is used for calculating parameters to beused for conducting image processing. The reduction rate is chosen sothat after a pixel has been reduced it is equal to a predeterminedlength. This makes it possible to compensate for the difference in readpixel size by using the reduced image. The image processing parameter iscalculated by using the reduced image for image processing rather thanusing image data.

[0301] [d. Image File]

[0302] (a) The image file consists of image associated information(image header) and image data.

[0303] (b) The image header consists of condition information, patientinformation and radiography implementation information.

[0304] When a user wants to refer to and change the conditioninformation, patient information, or radiography implementationinformation, the image header is referred to.

[0305] [e. Output Image File]

[0306] This file stores the output image data to which a specifiedprocessing method selected from the frequency processing, gradationprocessing, overlay, rotation, enlargement, and reduction has beenapplied.

[0307] [f. System File]

[0308] This file contains the above-mentioned system information.

[0309] D. Input and Display of Main Information

[0310] [a. Display of Received Image Information]

[0311] Received images are displayed as thumbnail images.

[0312] [b. Output Information Display]

[0313] #1 Specify the output size, view direction, trimming location,output location, and enlargement or reduction method. Register the databeforehand in the condition file.

[0314] #2 When a condition key is selected, the output zone and theoutput image zone are determined according to the preset condition anddisplayed on the screen of the image display apparatus 22. The maximumoutput zone is to be equal to the output zone display area on the screenof the image display apparatus 22. The output zone and the output imagezone are graphically displayed in the output zone display area. Thismakes it possible to select and confirm an appropriate output zone andoutput image zone for each apparatus.

[0315] [c. Overlay Information]

[0316] #1 Specify whether or not “AP”, “PA”, “R”, “L”, comment, or scaleis overlaid; and if overlaid, at which location. Register the databeforehand in the condition file.

[0317] #2 An output image is displayed in the output zone display areaon the screen of the image display apparatus 22, and overlay informationis also graphically displayed.

[0318] #3 It is possible to select an appropriate overlay and specifythe location.

[0319] #4 It is possible to check that there is no location that ishidden by an overlay. If the overlay interferes with a diagnosis, it canbe moved.

[0320] [d. Input/Output of Online Information Received from RIS]

[0321] #1 A doctor's order is input. The input order is converted to theformat compatible with this system and stored in the appointment file.The region to be radiographed and the radiographic method are convertedby using the corresponding radiographic condition key.

[0322] #2 The image header file is converted to the RIS compatibleformat and output.

[0323] [e. Image List]

[0324] Image files can be displayed as a list.

[0325] E. Image Confirmation Procedure

[0326] [a. System Operations when Confirming the Image]

[0327] (1) An image file is received from the medical image formingapparatus 1 and stored in the storage section 41.

[0328] (2) The image file stored in the storage medium of the storagesection 41 is reduced according to the reduction rate predetermined bythe image confirmation processing section 45.

[0329] (3) Sequentially, reduced images are displayed on the screen ofthe image display apparatus 22.

[0330] (4) After the images have been received and displayed, digitalimage information is processed according to the method specified by theradiographic condition key and displayed again on the image displayapparatus 22. Reduced images are used for determining image processingparameters.

[0331] (5) The images are sequentially displayed on the image displayapparatus 22; and then gradation processing is applied to the images,and the processed images will be displayed again.

[0332] (6) When an operator views the received image on the imagedisplay apparatus 22 and determines that the image is normal, theoperator enters the reception termination key by using the characterinformation input device and terminates the image confirmationprocedure.

[0333] (7) When changing patient information, image processing method,or output method, it is possible to enter new information by using acharacter information input device.

[0334] (8) When the image confirmation key is pressed, the imageconfirmation procedure for the image is terminated, and the next imagewill automatically be displayed.

[0335] (9) When there is a problem with the image, the image processingmethod can be changed. It is also possible to indicate it as “pending”and change the detailed image processing procedures later.

[0336] (10) When the image confirmation key is entered, the imageconfirmation procedure is terminated, and the following procedures areapplied:

[0337] #1 The image file is stored as a confirmed image file in thestorage section 41.

[0338] #2 Images that have been confirmed are registered in the queue tobe output to an external apparatus.

[0339] #3 The next received image file is displayed making imageconfirmation become possible.

[0340] (11) When the key for pending is entered, the image confirmationprocedure is terminated.

[0341] F. Output

[0342] (1) Output is conducted asynchronously with image reception andimage confirmation.

[0343] (2) A queue is created and managed for each external apparatus,and each queue operates independently and does not interfere with oneanother. Therefore, output is asynchronously conducted for eachapparatus.

[0344] (3) Information about in which queue of what external apparatusan image has been registered is stored as a queue registration table inthe storage section 31, updated and managed every time an image isregistered in the queue or deleted from the queue.

[0345] (4) Images that have been registered in the queue are sent out insequential order, in which they were registered, to an externalapparatus, and images that have been output are deleted from the queue.

[0346] (5) To conduct the output operation, specify an image file storedin the storage section 31 based on the number that has been registeredin the queue.

[0347] (6) An output image is formed according to the condition storedin the image file. The image header is converted to the format specifiedby each output apparatus and is transferred together with the imagedata.

[0348] G. Output Image Forming

[0349] [Image Forming Processing Conducted by the Output Image

[0350] Forming Section 43]

[0351] #1 Image data is read from the storage section 31 to the imagememory.

[0352] #2 Frequency processing is conducted.

[0353] #3 Equalization processing is conducted.

[0354] #4 Gradation processing is conducted.

[0355] #5 An image is rotated.

[0356] #6 Mirror reversal is conducted.

[0357] #7 Enlargement or reduction is conducted.

[0358] #8 Overlay is conducted.

[0359] Moreover, it is possible to specify in the condition informationwhether or not to conduct the processing procedures #2 to #8 for eachoutput apparatus. Furthermore, it is also possible to specify that imagedata, to which specified processing procedures #2 to #8 have beenapplied, is stored as a processed image data file. Avoid reprocessingthe commonly processed part of the image which is output to each outputapparatus. For example, when an enlargement or reduction rate of theimage varies depending on an output apparatus, if the image that hasprocessing procedures up to #6 finished is stored, when the image istransferred to another apparatus, it is possible to cut back processingtime necessary for conducting procedures #2 to #6 by reading theprocessed image, applying processing procedures #7 and #8 only, andtransferring the image. Conduct processing procedures #5 and #6simultaneously with one of the processing procedures #2, #3 or #4. Thisreduces the number of accesses to the memory, thereby reducing theprocessing time.

[0360] H. Utility Function

[0361] [a. Utility Function for Users]

[0362] Utility functions are restricted as passwords for a general user,manager, or maker. To change information about images, a managerpassword is required for security.

[0363] [b. Image File Operation]

[0364] #1 An image file list is displayed and information about storedimages is listed in sequential order of reception on the image displayapparatus 22.

[0365] #2 Selecting an image from the list will display patientinformation, condition information and the image in the same form as theimage confirmation screen.

[0366] #3 It is possible to change patient information, an imageprocessing method, and an output method.

[0367] #4 The image which has been specified as “pending” when aradiograph was taken can be unspecified by making reconfirmation at thispoint.

[0368] #5 It is possible to determine whether to output the data to eachexternal apparatus or change the sequential order of output.

[0369] [c. Radiography Log and Irradiation Log]

[0370] #1 Radiographic information and patient information arestatistically processed and a radiography log and an irradiation log areprovided for a user.

[0371] #2 It is possible to output the amount of radiography perradiographed region during a specified period and the list ofradiographic conditions applied to daily radiographs.

[0372] [d. Customization]

[0373] The screen and operability can be customized for each user.

[0374] Next, image processing conducted by the medical image processingapparatus 2 according to this embodiment will be described. The medicalimage processing apparatus 2 can apply image processing to the imagedata, which has been obtained as described above and is displayed on themonitor of the diagnosis terminal 3, according to the image contents andmonitor characteristics. Moreover, the program for executing the imageprocessing method, described hereafter, is stored in the specifiedstorage medium, such as a hard disk or a CD-ROM (not shown), read out tothe work area of the medical image processing apparatus 2, and executed.

[0375]FIG. 5 illustrates an example of the radiation image displayed onthe monitor 3 a based on the image data (herein, the “medical departmentname” and “radiographed region” which are text data and attached to theimage data are also shown). Moreover, the monitor 3 a has a dynamicrange that is fixed at 1:700 and also has the high-frequencycharacteristic that the image quality decreases by 30% at 3 lp/mm (linepair per millimeter). Those characteristics are to be stored beforehandin the medical image processing apparatus 2. The image of bones in thehand, shown in FIG. 5(b), is in a dynamic range of nearly 1:100 andincludes much information in regard to the frequency characteristic of 1to 2 lp/mm. Therefore, the image can be properly rendered on the monitor3 a.

[0376] However, the image of the blood vessels in the lung, shown inFIG. 5(a), is in a dynamic range of nearly 1:1000 and includes muchinformation in regard to the frequency characteristic of 2 to 3 lp/mm.If the image data is directly input into the monitor 3 a, the bloodvessels that are to be viewed are not clearly viewed due to thecharacteristics. According to this embodiment, before the image data isinput into the monitor 3 a, the image data is converted such that thedynamic range is increased and (or) the frequency at vicinity of 2 to 3lp/mm is enhanced. According to this embodiment, the conversionprocessing enables blood vessels in the lung in this example to beclearly rendered, thereby facilitating image interpretation.

[0377] Herein, how to evaluate the image contents becomes a problem. Inthe above-mentioned example, if the same conversion processing which hasbeen applied to the image data of lung blood vessels is applied to theimage data of the hand bones, the image of the hand bones may becomerather difficult to view. Therefore, this embodiment evaluates imagecontents by the following two methods:

[0378] One method is to determine the image content (whether it is abone or a blood vessel) by extracting the dynamic range and frequencycomponents from the image data itself. The other method is to determinethe image content by referring to the text data (serving as associatedata), if attached, such as a “medical department name” or “radiographedregion”. In regard to the latter method, for example, when interpretinglung blood vessels from the chest image, the “medical department name”is to be the internal medicine; therefore, the above-mentionedconversion processing is applied to the image data. However, wheninterpreting the ribs from the chest image, the “medical departmentname” is to be the surgery; therefore, the conversion processing is notapplied to the image data. It is recommended that the dynamic range andthe frequency band that should be highlighted in the image be stored asa table in the storage section 41 of the medical image processingapparatus 2.

[0379] Referring to FIG. 6, the foregoing will be further detailed inthe following. In the main controller 21 of the medical image processingapparatus 2, a method of recognizing the contents of the image isselected by the operating actions of the operator, as shown in step S101of FIG. 6. When the former method mentioned above is selected, the imagedata are read in order to conduct the image processing in step S102.While, when the latter method mentioned above is selected, the readingoperation of the text data attached to the image data is conducted instep S103. Then, in step S104, the content of the image is determinedthrough the abovementioned process, and in step S105, thecharacteristics of the monitor 3 a stored in advance in the storagesection 41 are readout. Finally, in step S106, based on the informationobtained in the above steps, the most suitable image processing isconducted. Incidentally, for instance, either a processing fordecreasing the sharpness of the image by applying a filtering operationto the image data, based on such information that the monitor fordisplaying the image is superior in sharpness, or a processing fordisplaying a part of image-gradations, based on such information thatthe monitor for displaying the image is inferior in a number ofgradations can be considered as the image processing utilizinginformation other than the above, the scope of the present invention isnot limited to the above examples.

[0380] The present invention has been described in reference to theembodiment; however, the present invention is not limited to theabove-mentioned embodiment and changes and improvements are definitelypossible. For example, it is possible to process image data of the handbones so that a specific dynamic range and a frequency band arehighlighted. Furthermore, an image processing apparatus and an imageprocessing method according to the present invention can be used forfields other than the medical field regardless of the above-mentionedembodiment.

[0381] Further, although an image-displaying monitor is exemplified as avisible-image outputting apparatus in the abovementioned embodiments ofthe present invention, the imager 6, serving as an example of a printer,can be also categorized in the visible-image outputting apparatus. Whenthe image is outputted from the imager 6, it becomes possible to obtainan optimum image by conducting the image processing which complies withthe characteristics of the imager 6.

[0382] The present invention can provide an image processing apparatus,which applies suitable processing according to an image so as toproperly render the image on the monitor, an image processing method, aprogram for executing the image processing method, and a storge mediumthat stores the program for exccuting the image processing method.

[0383] Disclosed embodiment can be varied by a skilled person withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An image-processing apparatus for converting afirst image data inputted into said image-processing apparatus to asecond image data used in a visible-image outputting apparatus, whichforms an image so as to make it visible for a human eyesight based onsaid second image data, said image-processing apparatus comprising: adata-characteristics acquiring section to acquire data-characteristicsof said first image data, including at least one of a dynamic range anda frequency characteristic, by analyzing said first image data inputtedinto said image-processing apparatus; a memory section to storeapparatus-characteristics of said visible-image outputting apparatus;and a processing section to adaptively change a data-converting methodfor converting said first image data to said second image data,corresponding to said data-characteristics of said first image dataacquired by said data-characteristics acquiring section and saidapparatus-characteristics of said visible-image outputting apparatus,stored in said memory section.
 2. The image-processing apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein, based on image data corresponding to an image of apart of human body to be visualized by said visible-image outputtingapparatus, said data-characteristics acquiring section acquires saiddata-characteristics of said first image data.
 3. The image-processingapparatus of claim 1, wherein, based on image data corresponding to animage of a part of human body to be visualized by said visible-imageoutputting apparatus, said data-characteristics acquiring sectionselects associate data relating to said image data, and then, saiddata-characteristics acquiring section acquires saiddata-characteristics of said first image data, based on said associatedata.
 4. The image-processing apparatus of claim 3, wherein saidassociate data includes information in respect to a name of a medicaldepartment, in which said image of said part of human body, to bevisualized by said visible-image outputting apparatus, is utilized formaking a diagnosis on said part of human body.
 5. The image-processingapparatus of claim 3, wherein said associate data includes informationin respect to a name of said part of human body, to be visualized bysaid visible-image outputting apparatus.
 6. The image-processingapparatus of claim 1, wherein said visible-image outputting apparatus isan image-displaying monitor.
 7. The image-processing apparatus of claim1, wherein said visible-image outputting apparatus is a printer.
 8. Animage-processing method for converting a first image data inputted intoan image-processing apparatus to a second image data used in avisible-image outputting apparatus, which forms an image so as to makeit visible for a human eyesight based on said second image data,comprising the steps of: acquiring data-characteristics of said firstimage data, including at least one of a dynamic range and a frequencycharacteristic, by analyzing said first image data inputted into saidimage-processing apparatus; storing apparatus-characteristics of saidvisible-image outputting apparatus in a memory; and adaptively changinga data-converting method for converting said first image data to saidsecond image data, corresponding to said data-characteristics of saidfirst image data acquired in said acquiring step and saidapparatus-characteristics of said visible-image outputting apparatus,stored in said memory.
 9. The image-processing method of claim 8,further comprising the step of: acquiring said data-characteristics ofsaid first image data, based on image data corresponding to an image ofa part of human body to be visualized.
 10. The image-processing methodof claim 8, further comprising the steps of: selecting associate datarelating to image data, which correspond to an image of a part of humanbody to be visualized, based on said image data; and acquiring saiddata-characteristics of said first image data, based on said associatedata selected in said selecting step.
 11. The image-processing method ofclaim 10, wherein said associate data includes information in respect toa name of a medical department in which said image of said part of humanbody, to be visualized, is utilized for making a diagnosis on said partof human body.
 12. The image-processing method of claim 10, wherein saidassociate data includes information in respect to a name of said part ofhuman body, to be visualized.
 13. The image-processing method of claim8, wherein said visible-image outputting apparatus is animage-displaying monitor.
 14. The image-processing apparatus of claim 8,wherein said visible-image outputting apparatus is a printer.
 15. Aprogram of executing an image-processing method for converting a firstimage data inputted into an image-processing apparatus to a second imagedata used in a visible-image outputting apparatus, which forms an imageso as to make it visible for a human eyesight based on said second imagedata; wherein said image-processing method comprises the steps of:acquiring data-characteristics of said first image data, including atleast one of a dynamic range and a frequency characteristic, byanalyzing said first image data inputted into said image-processingapparatus; storing apparatus-characteristics of said visible-imageoutputting apparatus in a memory; and adaptively changing adata-converting method for converting said first image data to saidsecond image data, corresponding to said data-characteristics of saidfirst image data acquired in said acquiring step and saidapparatus-characteristics of said visible-image outputting apparatus,stored in said memory.
 16. A storage medium storing a program ofexecuting an image-processing method for converting a first image datainputted into an image-processing apparatus to a second image data usedin a visible-image outputting apparatus, which forms an image so as tomake it visible for a human eyesight based on said second image data;wherein said image-processing method comprises the steps of: acquiringdata-characteristics of said first image data, including at least one ofa dynamic range and a frequency characteristic, by analyzing said firstimage data inputted into said image-processing apparatus; storingapparatus-characteristics of said visible-image outputting apparatus ina memory; and adaptively changing a data-converting method forconverting said first image data to said second image data,corresponding to said data-characteristics of said first image dataacquired in said acquiring step and said apparatus-characteristics ofsaid visible-image outputting apparatus, stored in said memory.